FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Chiereme Fortune, Director of Communications | chiereme@vakids.org | c: 240-688-4615 

Voices for Virginia’s Children Announces 2025 Amplify Awards Honorees from Around the Region 

Richmond, VA – Voices for Virginia’s Children is proud to announce the 2025 Amplify Awards Honorees, four trailblazers whose leadership and advocacy are shaping brighter futures for children, youth, and families across the Commonwealth. 

This year’s honorees represent the breadth of advocacy happening in Virginia, from seasoned leaders to emerging changemakers, from statewide organizations to youth-led movements (Media Passes and interviews with honorees and Voices’ staff are available upon request): 

Emerging Advocate (NOVA): Emil Cortorreal, a social work case manager with Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area, Emil supports unaccompanied refugee and immigrant minors with trauma-informed care and champions inclusive, healing-centered advocacy. 

Established Advocate (Roanoke): Renee Brown, CEO of DePaul Community Resources, and longtime child welfare leader. Renee has transformed foster care, adoption, and independent living programs while keeping hope and belonging at the heart of her work. 

Healing-Centered Organization (Multiregional): No Kid Hungry Virginia, led by Director Sarah Steely. This campaign has connected partners with more than $10 million in grants, ensuring every child in Virginia has access to three healthy meals a day, year-round. 

Youth-Led Organization (Charlottesville): Students for Equity and Reform in Virginia (S.E.R.V.), a student-run advocacy group at the University of Virginia that has become a fixture at the General Assembly, advancing equitable policies on school meals, healthcare, and education. 

The 2025 Amplify Awards Ceremony will take place on October 23, 2025, at UMFS Firefly Hall in Downtown Richmond, bringing together advocates, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate these honorees. 

“These awardees remind us of the power of advocacy to turn one voice into many,” said Rachael Deane, CEO of Voices for Virginia’s Children. “Whether it is student organizing, program innovation, direct service work, or walking the halls of the General Assembly, advocacy alongside young people and families has the power to turn lived experience into lasting change. “It is our honor to amplify the courage and commitment of these leaders.” 

About 

Voices for Virginia’s Children is a nonprofit organization committed to improving and protecting the lives of Virginia’s children, youth, and families. We champion public policies and legislation that achieve positive and equitable outcomes for young people. Learn more at vakids.org. 

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